Third suspect arrested in killing of Tasia Fortune

Content Trigger Warning — A third suspect has been arrested in the killing of 29‑year‑old Tasia Fortune, a Mississippi mother of four whose body was found hanging from a tree in Jackson on Aug. 3.

Third suspect arrested in killing of Tasia Fortune

Jackson Police said 45‑year‑old Eric Clark surrendered and was charged with murder, according to WJTV. A judge later set his bond at $5 million, calling the case “deeply disturbing” and harmful to public safety.

Eric Clark (Jackson Police Department)

Clark joins 51‑year‑old Jarques Ratliff and 25‑year‑old Earnest Lloyd Jr., who were previously charged with murder and denied bond. Ratliff has pleaded not guilty and remains in the Hinds County jail.

Medical Examiner Says Fortune Was Dead Before Hanging

For weeks, the public questioned whether Fortune’s death was a lynching. However, investigators revealed new findings during recent hearings. Det. Samuel Dukes testified that the Mississippi State Medical Examiner determined Fortune was already dead when her body was hanged, CBS News reports.

Additionally, Dukes said witness interviews indicated Fortune fought for her life before she was killed. Investigators believe she may have died during an alleged drug related dispute, though they have not released her official cause of death.

The medical examiner ruled the death a homicide, and detectives said the hanging was staged to mislead police and heighten fear, WJTV reported. This information was disclosed publicly for the first time during court testimony.

Case Moves Toward Grand Jury Review

A preliminary hearing scheduled for Sept. 30 will determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to present the case to a grand jury. Police said they expect additional arrests as they continue reviewing witness statements and physical evidence.

Because the scene resembled historic lynchings, Fortune’s death drew national attention. However, authorities said Fortune, Ratliff and Lloyd are Black, and they have not indicated that race played any role.

Family Says Fortune Was Rebuilding Her Life

Fortune had struggled with homelessness but was working to rebuild her life. Her mother, Christy Spivey, said Fortune hoped to start a cleaning business and create stability for her children.

Spivey continues to call for transparency as the case moves forward, saying she wants accountability for everyone involved.